Distinguished Guests, Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen

It is delightful to be back in Vietnam and a pleasure to say a few words of introduction before the performance tonight.

In just a few moments, we will enjoy an exciting programme of entertainment by renowned Danish and Vietnamese artists. A tale of two countries and a lasting friendship told through music and dance.

But first, a warm welcome to you all and thank you for being here with us tonight. We are honoured that tonight’s entertainment will be performed at this beautiful house of opera.

Tonight, we celebrate the 50th year anniversary of diplomatic relations between Denmark and Vietnam. A year later than expected – but as they say: good things are worth waiting for. The bilateral relationship between Denmark and Vietnam dates back to 1971, where the first diplomatic ties were established. A small seed was planted, ready to grow.

Since then, the bilateral relationship has transitioned from one of development cooperation to a mutually beneficial partnership.

In 2013, the Comprehensive Partnership Agreement was signed, and today, our relationship is stronger than ever. Covering a range of areas, from culture to business. This strong relationship is highlighted by the 36 Danish companies joining The Crown Prince and me on this visit. On a personal note, it is a great pleasure to be here this evening and to be back in Hanoi, which holds a special place in our family’s hearts.

My late father-in-law, Prince Henrik of Denmark, spent many years of his early childhood and adolescence in Hanoi. Years he remembered fondly and memories he shared with his family.

During a visit to Vietnam in 2009, he took us to Westlake, where he told us he often went walking with his nanny and to the villas in Phan Dinh Phung Street, where his family lived and to the secondary school where he graduated near the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. Vietnam and his Vietnamese friends had always a special place in his heart.

It was 13 years ago, that The Crown Prince and I visited Vietnam together with Her Majesty The Queen of Denmark and Prince Henrik. It was our first official visit together. Like today, it was autumn, a most beautiful season in Hanoi.

The close friendship and strong ties between the people of Vietnam and Denmark, was clear from the moment we landed.

Today, we see how close this friendship and partnership continues to be. It gives us great joy. Denmark and Vietnam have much to share with one another.

The Crown Prince and I have truly looked forward to the performances we are going to see tonight. Although our countries are geographically far from each other, the artists performing tonight show that we share a strong cultural bond – and that long distances are no barrier for close relations. I hope that we will all leave here tonight feeling inspired, encouraged and well entertained.

Our diplomatic relations started as a small seed, and that seed has transformed into a strong and valuable relationship. Let us continue to plant seeds and grow and develop our relationship to the benefit and joy of our two countries.

Have a great night.

Thank you.

 

(Det talte ord gælder)